Senate Republicans Release 2016 Legislative Agenda

Oregon Senate Republicans

Urge Democrat Leaders to Respect Voter Intent for February Session and Reject Partisan Policymaking

Salem, Ore. – Monday, Senate Republicans released their agenda for the February 2016 short legislative session focused on the top priorities for Oregonians: creating jobs and strengthening education. The agenda includes only four items addressing pressing challenges in Oregon, respecting the will of voters who intended the short session be used only for the most pressing legislative emergencies, not sweeping changes to Oregon’s government.

“This reasonable, consensus agenda proposes practical solutions to the two biggest issues concerning Oregonians today: our crumbling education system and abysmal graduation rate and an economy that does not foster small business success and the growth of family-wage jobs,” explained Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli (R-John Day). “These proposals address the immediate needs of Oregonians without feeding the highly partisan tone we’ve come to expect in the February short session.”

The four proposals included in the agenda will equip workers for family-wage jobs, provide incentives for small businesses, prioritize education spending and protect parental involvement in their children’s education.

“Voters did not intend for legislators to cram the short session with partisan policymaking,” said Senator Herman Baertschiger (R-Grants Pass). “35 days is not long enough to thoughtfully consider major changes to the way Oregonians live and work. We must use the February session to make budget adjustments and address the immediate needs of Oregonian, including more family wage jobs now.”

To see the full 2016 Senate Republican agenda, click here.